Women, Infant and Children Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (Somali Speaking)

Overview

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Starting salary $19.60 – $21.75, with progression to $32.73

Current or previous Women’s Infants and Children (WIC) program participant
AND
Has breastfed at least one (1) baby exclusively giving no supplements like water, glucose water, infant formula, or other fluids for six (6) months or longer (does not have to be currently breastfeeding) and is enthusiastic about breastfeeding and wants to help others enjoy a positive experience.

Required Qualifications 
Can speak and write fluently in both the English and Somali languages.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid Minnesota Driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three years.

Nature of Work

Under supervision, provides basic breastfeeding information, positive reinforcement and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding participants. Performs related work as assigned. Must be available outside normal business hours to assist with breastfeeding problems.

Examples of Work 

Provides support, encouragement and breastfeeding information to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding participants in the WIC clinic and by telephone at scheduled intervals determined by the WIC program; makes periodic contacts with all assigned participant referrals.
Assists parents in accessing needed breastfeeding resources; refers participants, according to clinic-established protocols, to the designated WIC Supervisor or breastfeeding expert, the breastfeeding parent’s physician or nurse, public health programs in the community and social service agencies
Maintains accurate and confidential records of contacts made with WIC participants as required by the State or local agency
Attends breastfeeding training classes in lactation, biweekly staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate
Reads assigned books and materials on breastfeeding that are provided by the supervisor
Assists WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned
Performs related duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required 

Knowledge of breastfeeding techniques and best practices
Skill in the use of computers and technology
Skill in interpersonal communication
Skill in recordkeeping and documentation
Skill in active listening
Ability to maintain confidential information
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
Ability to adapt to a variety of personal situations
Ability to be non-judgmental and accepting of others and able to exercise tact and good judgment in working with children and adults
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
Ability to accept and utilize supervision
Ability to work with people of diverse economic, culture and social backgrounds
Ability to work independently
Ability to apply training and best practices

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.